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Encyclopaedia   Gender and Elections   ENHANCING A GENDER APPROACH IN ELECTION OBSERVATION AND MONITORING  
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International and domestic election observation organizations can integrate a gender approach through their members’ work, looking into barriers that hinder women’s participation in the electoral process and measures adopted by relevant stakeholders to overcome these obstacles. Gender can be mainstreamed in election observation either through comprehensive election observation, or through specific observation efforts targeting women’s participation in the electoral process. A gender-balanced composition of observation teams is key to promote the principle of equality in this field. Also, considering the issue of women’s participation in the observation reporting process, including final reports and recommendations, can contribute to improved political participation of women. Furthermore, election observation can address the participation of LGBTI persons and assess their access to the electoral process, identifying discriminatory legislation and practices on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, and making recommendations to foster political inclusion.